Connecticut Plants
Indian-tobacco
Lobelia inflata
This is the most common lobelia in Connecticut. As the seed pod develops, it swells into a ball, hence the species name "inflata." These inflated seedpods are the best identifying mark for Indian-tobacco. Note also the small, widely spaced flowers (which distinguish it from spiked lobelia), and the broad leaves (which distinguish it from brook lobelia.
- Family: bellflower (Campanulaceae)
- Habitat: fields, roadsides, open woods
- Height: 6-30 inches
- Flower size: 1/4 inch long
- Flower color: pale blue-purple
- Flowering time: July to October
- Origin: native
